Chemistry of Life Semester 1 only

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• Explain what an acid and base is and understand their use in buffered solutions
• Explain key concepts behind atomic and molecular structure including functional groups as well as isomers and chirality
• Radioactivity. Describe alpha, beta and gamma decay, and use this to predict decay series. Understand the concepts of a radioactive half-life and how it is calculated. Be familiar with the use of these isotopes in biology and the types of protection required for their use.
• Understand the concepts underpinning thermodynamics and be able use these concepts including a) enthalpy, entropy and free energy b) Determine how ions behave in solution (ideal solutions, ionic strength) c) Understand thermodynamics of ligand binding and how it can be used.

Outline Syllabus:

The topics will be taught in two parallel strands with one hour lectures in each strand each week.

Strand 1 could be broadly identified as organic chemistry while strand 2 deals with physical Chemistry.

Semester 1:

1) Understand the principles underlying atomic and molecular structure (Strand 1)

2) Identification of functional groups and understand their reactivity (Strand 1)

3) Understand the properties of acids and bases and their use in buffers (Strand 1)

4) Concept of oxidation and reduction reactions and relation to bioenergy (Strand 2)

5) Basic concepts underpinning the thermodynamics of biological systems (Strand 2)

6) The thermodynamic properties of gases and solutions, including the concept of chemical potential (Strand 2)

7) Ligand binding to macromolecules (Strand 2)

The module will be delivered through a combination of lectures supported with on-line tests to reinforce learning. Mathematical concepts will be supported through the introduction of an on-line resource.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.